China is rapidly emerging as a global leader in sodium-ion batteries, with electric scooters acting as the testing ground for this new technology. Unlike traditional lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries, sodium-ion cells use abundant materials like salt, making them cheaper and less dependent on scarce raw minerals. Major two-wheeler makers such as Yadea have already launched multiple sodium-powered scooter models, supported by fast-charging pillars and battery-swapping stations that fit into China’s growing charging ecosystem.

The two-wheeler market offers a perfect entry point for sodium batteries. These vehicles require shorter ranges and lower speeds compared to cars, which reduces the pressure on energy density—a key limitation of sodium-ion technology. With over 55 million e-scooters sold in China in 2023 alone, the scale of this industry provides fertile ground for mass adoption. Pilot projects with delivery drivers in cities like Shenzhen further highlight how sodium batteries can fit seamlessly into daily commuting through swapping networks.

Beyond scooters, sodium-ion batteries are being tested in grid-scale energy storage. Their lower cost potential and stable performance in cold weather make them attractive for renewable integration, where size and weight are less critical. China has already built sodium-powered storage stations, and roughly one-fifth of planned new energy storage projects involve sodium technology. While still more expensive per unit than lithium-ion, analysts expect the price gap to narrow as production scales up.

China’s aggressive investment, with dozens of new factories under construction and billions poured into R&D, ensures it will dominate this field if sodium batteries reach mass-market readiness. While companies in the US and UK are also developing the technology, their smaller scale makes it hard to compete. For China, the strategy is clear: maintain its battery leadership by diversifying beyond lithium, with scooters serving as the launchpad for sodium-ion commercialization and, potentially, future global adoption.